Broadwater safety improves after Operation Clearwater
Gold Coast waterways recorded stronger compliance after targeted checks, support and abandoned vessel removals.
What’s happening?
Operation Clearwater has concluded after a coordinated effort to improve safety and compliance across Gold Coast waterways.
The Queensland Government operation began on 11 May 2026, combining targeted education with enforcement activities. Maritime Safety Queensland led the operation alongside the Gold Coast Waterways Authority.
Several government waterway management agencies worked through a coordinated Incident Management Team. The team operated from the Marine Operations Base in Southport.
The operation focused on addressing vessel non-compliance while improving cooperation between agencies responsible for managing the waterways.
Why it matters?
The Gold Coast has one of Queensland’s busiest waterway networks, making vessel safety and responsible use important for the community.
Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillon said the operation showed what agencies could achieve by working together.
“The results of Operation Clearwater demonstrated the value of a coordinated approach to improve safety and compliance on one of Queensland’s busiest waterways,” Mr Dillon said. “This was an important initiative demonstrating the Queensland Government’s commitment to safer, more sustainable waterways, through the collaborative efforts of partner agencies on the Gold Coast.”
The coordinated approach allowed agencies to address safety concerns while supporting the long-term management of the Broadwater.
Local Impact
Operation Clearwater improved compliance while also supporting vulnerable people who were living aboard vessels and needed assistance.
Mr Dillon said the operation balanced enforcement activities with support for people facing difficult circumstances.
“Operation Clearwater has delivered strong compliance outcomes and safety outcomes on the Gold Coast, while supporting vulnerable people living aboard vessels who needed assistance.”
The work also improved access and safety for residents, recreational boaties and other people using the waterways.
By the Numbers
The operation produced several clear results during its eight-week run across Gold Coast waterways.
Officers conducted 2,575 vessel intercepts through targeted education, safety checks and enforcement activities.
A total of 279 vessels achieved compliance after issues were identified and addressed during the operation.
Five abandoned and derelict vessels were removed from the Broadwater, improving safety, access and the surrounding environment.
Zoom In
Gold Coast Waterways Authority CEO Chris Derksema said the operation addressed long-standing issues affecting the Broadwater.
“The Broadwater is one of the Gold Coast’s most important community assets and people expect it to be clean, accessible and well managed,” Mr Derksema said.
“Addressing long-standing issues and removing abandoned vessels has made a real difference to the condition and amenity of the Broadwater.
“Our focus now is on ensuring those improvements are maintained for everyone who uses and enjoys these waterways.”
The results mean local waterway users should experience a cleaner and more accessible Broadwater, supported by continued compliance activities.
Zoom Out
Operation Clearwater also formed part of broader efforts to protect Queensland’s waterways and surrounding marine environments.
Mr Dillon said removing abandoned vessels would have benefits beyond immediate boating safety.
“The removal of abandoned and derelict vessels from the Broadwater is a significant step towards protecting this vital marine environment for future generations.”
The operation showed how coordinated enforcement, education and social support could address several waterway issues at the same time.
What To Look For Next?
Maritime Safety Queensland will continue working with the Gold Coast Waterways Authority after the formal operation has ended.
Both agencies will maintain day-to-day compliance activities while building on the safety improvements achieved through Operation Clearwater.
“Boaties can expect increased and focused compliance activities to ensure safe, navigable and accessible waterways for the Gold Coast community,” Mr Dillon said.
Continued checks will focus on preserving the Broadwater’s condition and keeping Gold Coast waterways safe and accessible.